Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. Inside each tooth is a soft tissue called pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause severe pain and lead to abscess formation if left untreated.
During a root canal procedure, the dentist or endodontist (a specialist in treating the inside of teeth) removes the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth's interior. This process involves creating an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The dentist carefully cleans and disinfects the pulp chamber and root canals to remove any bacteria and debris.
Once the pulp chamber and root canals are thoroughly cleaned, they are filled and sealed with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha. This seals off the tooth to prevent bacteria from re-entering and causing further infection. In some cases, a post may be placed inside the root canal to provide support for a dental crown, which is typically placed on top of the tooth to restore its strength and function.
Root canal therapy is often performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort during the procedure. While it is a common misconception that root canals are painful, the procedure itself is not typically painful because the tooth's nerves are removed. However, some discomfort or sensitivity may occur after the procedure, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Root canal therapy is highly successful in saving teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to infection or decay. It allows patients to retain their natural teeth, which is important for maintaining proper chewing function and preventing shifting of adjacent teeth. After a root canal, the tooth may be more fragile and prone to fracture, so a dental crown is often recommended to protect and strengthen it.
Overall, root canal therapy is an effective treatment for relieving pain, saving infected teeth, and restoring oral health and function. It is important for individuals experiencing symptoms such as severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or discoloration of the tooth to seek prompt dental care, as delaying treatment can lead to further complications and the potential loss of the tooth.
Go to homepage
